The clinical goal for CT contrast enhanced examinations is to achieve diagnostic contrast enhancement in the target region of interest.  Multiple factors influence contrast enhancement: patient factors, contrast medium factors and scanner factors.  The most important patient-related factor affecting the magnitude of vascular and parenchymal contrast enhancement is body weight.  Different body weight can influence enhancement when using a fixed injection protocol.  A shift from fixed to personalised protocols should be the ultimate objective.  The goal of individualising contrast protocols is a more consistent enhancement.

Whilst patient body weight is a key factor in CT imaging principles, we mustn’t forget other factors that have an impact, such as contrast medium dosing factors, iodine delivery rates and even variable CT tube voltages.  With so many principles to consider, how can today’s busy CT departments realise the goal of individualising contrast protocols?

Professor Antonio Castellaccio, radiologist at Hospital Universitario Nuestra Senora del Rosario, Madrid presents a lecture focusing on this topic.  Recorded at Bayer’s third annual imaging masterclass event at the King’s Fund in May 2025 Professor Castellaccio’s lecture “Advancing CCTA clinical benefits of personalised protocols” looks at how a personalised approach to cardiac imaging in CT can be achieved.

The Bayer Cardiac Imaging Masterclass was attended by over 100 delegates from across the country and boasted a stellar, internationally recognised faculty of experts, brought together astutely by Co-chair’s Dr Chiara Bucciarelli-Ducci, Consultant Cardiologist, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Trust London and Michelle Walkden, Cardiac MRI Lead Radiographer, University Hospital Southampton.  The meeting received an opening address from BIR President Dr Nick Screaton.

The scientific programme was extensive and covered topics ranging from heart failure, congenital heart disease and AI in cardiovascular imaging.  The day included an opportunity for Radiologists and Cardiologists to exchange during a case study session, a radiographer-led session and an expert panel MDT-style case review.  Bayer’s masterclass series is an important part of their commitment to providing meaningful and worthwhile education to healthcare professionals.  This recording and others from previous events can be found at radiologyhub.co.uk, a promotional website hosted by Bayer. In addition to providing education through events such as the cardiac imaging masterclass, Bayer offers an extensive lunch and learn programme which can be delivered ‘in department’ and includes lectures on gadolinium safety, liver imaging basics and a safety overview of iodinated contrast media. 

For further information, reach out to your local Bayer representative or contact Bayer at radiologyuk@bayer.com